10/18/2026
A very special mitzvah was done today.
Two weeks ago, I received a call letting me know that Ron Vardi, a Jewish man living in Anna, Texas, had passed away. Ron had no immediate family, and there was a real concern that he would not receive a proper Jewish burial.
Baruch Hashem, our broader Jewish community came together. The Collin County Medical Examiner's Office was respectful and willing to work with us so that Ron could receive a proper Jewish burial. JFS of Dallas and Dallas Jewish Funerals stepped in to take care of all the arrangements, and Congregation Shearith Israel generously donated a plot in their cemetery so that Ron could be laid to rest with dignity in a Jewish cemetery.
Yesterday at our Shabbos kiddush, I shared Ron's story and mentioned that we were looking for a minyan for the funeral. I was so inspired by the response of several individuals in our community wanting to help.
Today, members of our community came out to show their support, honor Ron, and make sure Kaddish was said for him.
There is no greater kindness than one done for someone who can never repay it. Thank you to everyone who answered the call, and to the Collin County Medical Examiner's Office, Jewish Family Service, Dallas, Houston and Dallas Jewish Funerals and Congregation Shearith Israel for their care and generosity.
May Ron's neshama have an Aliyah.